Domestic abuse survivors and the family justice system: where are we now?

The Domestic Abuse Commissioner and expert lawyers discuss the measures taken in the family justice system in England and Wales to improve support for survivors of domestic abuse, and what more could be done.

“The evidence raised repeated concerns about the treatment of children and adult victims of domestic abuse in a considerable number of cases. Although we do not know how representative these concerns are, on the evidence available the panel concludes that family courts approach domestic abuse cases inconsistently, and in some cases with harmful effects” p173, Assessing Risk of Harm to Children and Parents in Private Law Children Cases [2020] Ministry of Justice.

Organised by King’s Legal Clinic’s family law team, this event considers the difficulties faced by those who experience domestic abuse when they access the family courts for protective orders and for help in relation to children and finances. A panel of expert speakers, including Nicole Jacobs, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner, will evaluate the progress of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 provisions and recommendations for change in the family justice system.

Panel discussions will be 5.30-7.30pm, followed by a drinks reception until 8.30pm.

Speakers:

• Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales
• Jenny Beck KC, Director of Beck Fitzgerald, lawyers and consultants 
• Mandip Ghai, Senior Legal Officer, Rights of Women 

Panel Chair: Hannah Camplin, Senior Lecturer and Supervising Solicitor, King’s Legal Clinic, King’s College London